south metro

Keeping them closed

The Prior Lake-Savage district estimates it would cost about $150,000 in security and utility costs to keep the building closed. But opening it would cost $1.4 million, the equivalent of 38 staff positions.

"None of us wants a new school building ... to sit unused for a year," said school board member Dick Booth. "But the alternative ... is a lot more expensive."

Farmington finance director Jeff Priess said the school district would not be able to open the new Farmington High School until it got an operating levy past voters. One of three levy questions the district is asking voters to approve would provide $1.69 million a year for 10 years towards opening and operating the high school.

If this year's question fails, the district could ask again next year without the school having to sit empty. But if that fails?

"We just wouldn't have the operating dollars to open the school," he said.

Emily Johns • 612-673-7460